Dimethyl ether

First, Basic Information about dimethyl ether
1. CAS Number: 115-10-6.
2. Appearance and Odor: At standard temperature and pressure, it is a colorless gas with a faint ether-like odor.
Second, Physical Properties
1. State and Boiling Point: Gaseous at room temperature with a low boiling point of approximately -24.9°C. This allows it to liquefy under slight pressure, facilitating storage and transportation.
2. Solubility: Exhibits excellent miscibility, dissolving in most polar and nonpolar organic solvents such as water, ethanol, diethyl ether, acetone, and chloroform.
3. Density: Relative density (water = 1) is 0.67; relative vapor density (air = 1) is 1.62.
Third, Chemical Properties
1. Stability: Generally chemically stable under normal conditions, but non-corrosive to metals.
2. Flammability: Highly flammable. Forms explosive mixtures with air within a concentration range of 3.4%–27% (by volume). Ignites or explodes readily upon contact with open flames or intense heat. Burns with a slightly luminous flame, producing carbon dioxide and water upon complete combustion.
3. Oxidation Reactions: Under certain conditions, it can be oxidized. For example, with a catalyst, it can be oxidized by air to produce formaldehyde and other products.
Fourth, Primary Applications
1. Energy Sector
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Substitute: Dimethyl ether has combustion properties similar to LPG but burns more completely and cleanly, making it suitable as a residential fuel. It can be used alone or blended with LPG, natural gas, and other fuels.
Automotive Fuel: With a high cetane number, dimethyl ether serves as an alternative diesel fuel. Its use in vehicles reduces engine nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions, contributing to improved air quality.
2. Chemical Industry
Aerosol Propellant: Due to its excellent solubility and low toxicity, it can replace traditional aerosol propellants like Freon in products such as hair spray, air fresheners, and insecticides.
Solvent: It serves as a solvent in industries like coatings, inks, and adhesives, dissolving certain hard-to-dissolve organic compounds.
Chemical Raw Material: It serves as a key feedstock for producing various chemical products, such as synthesizing low-carbon olefins, formaldehyde, and methyl acetate.
Fifth, Safety Precautions
1. Storage and Transportation: Store in a cool, well-ventilated, dedicated flammable gas warehouse, away from ignition sources and heat. Warehouse temperature should not exceed 30°C. Keep separate from oxidizers, acids, halogens, and other incompatible substances; never store together. When transporting in cylinders, ensure cylinder caps are securely fastened. Cylinders should generally be laid horizontally with all openings facing the same direction; do not stack crosswise. Height must not exceed the vehicle's guardrails, and cylinders should be secured with wedges to prevent rolling.
2. Usage and Operation: Operators must undergo specialized training and strictly adhere to operating procedures. It is recommended that operators wear self-filtering respirators (half masks), chemical safety goggles, anti-static work clothing, and chemical-resistant gloves. Keep away from ignition sources and heat. Smoking is strictly prohibited in the workplace. Use explosion-proof ventilation systems and equipment. Prevent gas leakage into the workplace air. Avoid contact with oxidizers, acids, and halogens. During transport, cylinders and containers must be grounded and bonded to prevent static electricity. Handle with care during loading and unloading to prevent damage to cylinders and accessories.

Dimethyl sulfide
Diethylene glycol dimethyl ether